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Country Guide > Africa > Zimbabwe | |
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Parks & Wildlife From the forested mountains of the Eastern highlands to the sun-washed grasslands of Hwange National Park, from the hot Mopani Forest to the shores of Lake Kariba, more than 11 per cent of Zimbabwe’s land – 44,688 sq km (17,254 sq miles) – has been set aside as parks and wildlife estates. There are 10 national parks and 10 recreational parks around the country, plus several botanical gardens, sanctuaries and 14 national safari areas for hunting (an activity that helps to finance the conservation programme and is strictly controlled). For safety reasons, visitors may not enter any national park by motorcycle. Formerly Wankie National Park, this is one of Zimbabwe’s largest parks, both in size, 14,620 sq km (5,644 sq miles), and in the variety of animals and birds that may be seen. From the three camps, networks of game-viewing roads guide visitors to areas with good animal concentrations and to waterholes where, in the evenings, great numbers of wild animals congregate. At some waterholes, platforms are erected from which one can observe game closely and in safety. Hwange is one of the last of the great elephant sanctuaries in Africa and herds of up to 100 elephants may be seen drinking and bathing at the waterholes, particularly at the end of the dry season in September. 120km (75 miles) from the Hwange National Park are the largest waterfalls in the world – at 2.5km (1.5 miles) wide, 550 million litres of water plunge 100m (330ft) into a narrow chasm every minute; the spray can be seen 30km (20 miles) away. To gain an overall impression of the Falls, the ‘Flight of the Angels’ light plane trip is a must, as is a cruise up the mighty Zambezi River. It is possible to walk across to Zambia (with the minimum of formalities) to view from the other side; this is also highly recommended, for the Falls are without a doubt one of the world’s grandest natural spectacles and every viewpoint reveals something new. Nearby is the Zambezi National Park, where sable antelopes and other exotic animals graze in a parkland setting. One of Zimbabwe’s most beautiful national parks, occupying 2196 sq km (848 sq miles) of forest along the shores of the Zambezi River. The animal population includes hippo, elephant, rhino, buffalo and many types of antelope. Game-viewing on foot is allowed. The birdlife along the river and in the bush is particularly prolific. It is possible to fish for tigerfish, bream and the giant vundu. Situated in the northwest of the country on the Zambian border, Lake Kariba covers 7770 sq km (3000 sq miles) and holds a million gallons of water. Game can be viewed from the comfort of various safari camps, or from well-appointed cruise vessels and self-contained safari-crafts. Located close to Bulawayo, Zimbabwe’s second major city, the park is noted for its spectacular granite rock formations and its wealth of ancient rock paintings. Cecil Rhodes’ tomb can be visited at Malindidzimu (View of the World). The Nswatugi and Pomongwe caves are worth visiting. Situated in the mountain range that covers the eastern part of Zimbabwe, Nyanga National Park is an area of high grasslands, evergreen forests, waterfalls, cliffs and lakeside cottages. Trout fishing is very popular and the trout hatchery is well worth a visit. Visitors can also climb Mount Nyangani, the country’s highest peak. The World’s View offers a panoramic view across northern Zimbabwe. From here, a steep footpath leads to the road to Nyanga village with its English gardens, village common and church. |